The Washington Redskins liked free-agent RB Chris Thompson's (Redskins) speed, elusiveness and pass-catching abilities, but he was released because his durability issues. Thompson missed time last season and was only able to play in two preseason games this season.

Washington Redskins RB Roy Helu will receive competition from RBs Chris Thompson and Lache Seastrunk for the role of third-down running back. Helu is criticized for rarely getting more than what defenses give him, and the coaching regime who selected him out of college are no longer with the organization. It is expected Helu will win the job because the other two are unproven in pass-protection situations at the NFL level.

Fantasy Tip: Helu is a RB5/6 with more value in PPR leagues, and obvious handcuff for Alfred Morris, if he wins the job. Seastrunk could be worth a late-round flier in deep leagues, if he proves he is a capable pass blocker during training camp. Thompson is undraftable at this point.

Washington Redskins RB Chris Thompson (quadriceps) did not participate in organized team activities Wednesday, June 4, because of a minor quadriceps strain. He said he hopes to be able to practice Thursday, June 5.

Washington Redskins RB Chris Thompson is viewed as a solid pass-catcher in space, but he needs to improve as a blocker if he is to carve out a bigger role for himself, according to beat writer John Keim. Durability has also been an issue for Thompson, and if he gets hurt his roster spot could be in jeopardy.

Washington Redskins RBs Evan Royster, Chris Thompson and Keiland Williams appears to be battling for one or two roster spots, depending on how many running backs the team keeps. Offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan said the roster spots for reserve running backs remain "up for grabs" heading into the preseason finale Thursday, Aug. 29. Thompson helps his cause, as he might be used in the punt return game.

Fantasy Tip: Thompson appears to be well behind Roy Helu for the backup running back job, and the fumble likely all but ended what most felt was already a decided battle. Avoid Thompson for fantasy purposes unless injuries open up a more prominent role.

Washington Redskins RBs Chris Thompson and Jawan Jamison have a good shot to see action with the second-team offense in the team's second preseason game. They had both previously been limited to work with the third-string offense.

The Washington Redskins are sorting out their RB depth chart. Roy Helu seems like the best fit for changeup work, and he has improved in his pass protection. Evan Royster will have to be beaten out for his roster spot. Rookie Chris Thompson (knee) would be a solid fit for triple-option reads and third-down plays, as well, but he needs to heal following a torn anterior cruciate ligament. Plus, he needs to gain experience in picking up blitzes. Jawan Jamison, another first-year player, looks to be more in the mold of Royster.

Fantasy Tip: Royster seems like he'd be the best fill-in for Alfred Morris as the main back, but Helu will be the likeliest to have an every-week role if everyone is healthy. But with Mike Shanahan running things, you can't cement a hierarchy.

Washington Redskins RB Chris Thompson (knee) remains more than a month away from receiving full clearance to return to action. The fifth-round pick from Florida State is expected to contend for a spot behind RB Alfred Morris, and the training staff feels he will be ready to participate fully when the team opens training camp July 25.

Fantasy Tip: Morris had plenty of question marks last year, and he came out of nowhere last season to seize the No. 1 job. Thompson might not necessarily do that, but head coach Mike Shanahan has a knack for cultivating quality running backs with low draft picks, so Thompson could be one to watch. Take a wait-and-see approach with Thompson, who could be worth a late-round flier on draft day if he has a strong training camp and preseason.

Washington Redskins RB Chris Thompson (knee) is expected to receive medical clearance before the start of training camp. He has been running and cutting but does not expect to be a full participant during organized team activities and minicamp.